Good morning, Glendale.

Phoenix NASCAR community remembered retired star Greg Biffle, who died along with his wife, Cristina, children and fellow travelers in a North Carolina plane crash on Thursday + his 54 career wins and humanitarian work left a lasting mark on local racing.

Influence Studios is now operating at 7018 N.

57th Ave., downtown Glendale, as a full-service creative agency offering video production, studio rentals and digital marketing. Mayor Weiers said the studio boosts downtown's charm and will serve projects from local businesses and major brands.

Glendale-based Rainbow Ryders will offer hot air balloon rides at the Arizona Balloon Classic from Jan.

16-18, 2026, at Wild Horse Pass Festival Grounds in Chandler. Morning flights run daily and afternoon flights (weather permitting) on Jan. 16-17 include a toast and entry to Desert Glows for $325 each.

Schools in our area are preparing to ban ultraprocessed foods starting next school year as required by the Arizona Healthy Schools Act signed in April.

Districts are already making changes to remove 11 additives (including artificial dyes) from school meals.

Mountain Ridge girls soccer remains unsure if it will advance deep in 6A playoffs or in the Open Division final eight, but the team is focused on upcoming region games.

Senior Jenna Dudley said the players are eager for tough rivalries (Desert Valley Region).

Atlanta running back Bijan Robinson and Arizona tight end Trey McBride are scheduled to shine in the NFL matchup on Sunday in the desert – Robinson nears 2,000 scrimmage yards while McBride maintains a record-breaking streak.

The Falcons and Cardinals face off amid rising expectations.

Winterfest: Gears of the North

12:30-2:00 p.m. — Foothills Library — Free entry — Experience a steampunk twist on holiday magic at a fun-filled family adventure with Santa and creative activities.

Ballet Arizona - The Nutcracker

2–9 p.m. — Symphony Hall — Ticket prices vary — Experience the enchantment of the beloved holiday classic, The Nutcracker, in a magical performance.

Dave & Buster's New Year's Eve Celebration

4-7 p.m. — Dave & Buster's Glendale — Ticket info TBA — Celebrate the countdown to 2026 with food, games, and festivities at the ultimate party destination.

St. Madness: A Night of Legendary Proportions

7-10 p.m. — The 44 Sports Grill & Nightlife — Check website for entry details — Celebrate the return of St. Madness with a night of unforgettable live music.